Guys, I don’t know about you- but half of my bathroom cabinet is stacked high with masks and cleansers. What can I say? The beauty industry is chalked full of interesting formulas and antidotes.
With thousands of cosmetic brands on the market, you may end up wondering- what is the best skincare subscription box out there? Well, we’re glad you asked.
How Skincare Subscription Boxes Work
G-g-get ready to rumble! In this special review, we’ll be tackling 17 internet-famous cosmetic labels to find the Best Skincare Subscription Boxes plan.
If you’re new to the ‘beauty brand rodeo,’ membership plans usually entail a weekly (or monthly) delivery of products. Depending on the company, customers may have the freedom to personalize their own collection or have it delivered as a recurring surprise.
The 17 Best Skincare Subscription Boxes
Intended for those savvy on creams, toners, exfoliants, and more, this in-depth commentary will go into detail of what each membership includes.
To give readers a better comparison, we’ll also award points on customizability, hidden perks, and how this company differs from the competition.
Ready to get started? This review will spotlight a few of the internet’s Best Skincare Subscription Boxes. Here’s to hoping that readers will walk away with a more informed choice.
#1: Ipsy Subscription
About the brand:
It should come as no surprise that acclaimed beauty vlogger, Michelle Phan, kickstarted her own cosmetic label. During her early years on YouTube, Ipsy was created to help empower and inspire makeup geeks from around the globe.
Founded in 2011, this Californian-based brand is known for their monthly subscription box- which is decked with trendy eyeshadow palettes and skincare formulas.
The company states that they are all about diversity and gender inclusivity- which has won them a 3 million following on Instagram and several celebrity endorsements.
What You Get:
Hey there, trendsetters. We’re fully aware of your hard-earned struggle. It’s quite difficult to stay on top of certain crazes and fads.
Thankfully, the Ipsy Glam Bag Plus takes care of the legwork, as each subscription box is decked out with the hottest picks on the beauty market. It includes a bounty of different makeup and skincare products, such as the Sunday Riley face cream and the Murad Eye Serum.
Within this Skincare Subscription Boxes set, members can choose up to 5 full-sized products. From there, the brand will recommend two items based on the results from your beauty quiz.
After choosing 3 brands from a personalized setlist, customers have the option of selecting 8 additional formulas or makeup palettes.
It’s worth noting that the Ipsy Glam Bag Plus is considered the ‘second-class’ version of its two other plans. This review recommends heading over to their website for in-depth specifics on the Glam Bag and the Glam Bag Ultimate.
Delivery & Cost:
The Ipsy Glam Bag Plus costs $25 per month. Even though it costs more than a usual Netflix subscription plan- each box contains $120 worth of items.
As an added bonus, you don’t even need to pay for shipping. After placing an order, customers should expect their first delivery within two weeks. Sadly, this membership box is only exclusive to those living in Canada and the United States. However, the brand is looking to expand its operations worldwide.
When it comes to returns, IPSY is unable to offer refunds or exchanges for any of their Glam Bag memberships.
With that being said, they do provide a 45-day window for replacements. If you have a damaged item within your box, it’s best to contact the company for further instructions.
Related: Read the full Ipsy Review.
#2: BOXYCHARM
About the brand:
Founded in 2013, owner Joe Martin sought to revolutionize the beauty industry with his own collection of cosmetic items. With the intention of giving customers the ‘cream of the crop.’ This online subscription service gathers the best when it comes to skincare and makeup.
Headquartered in South Florida, BoxyCharm is considered a major contender in the self-care and grooming marketplace.
With a following of over 2.5 million on Instagram, this beauty brand seems to be the talk of the town, according to media outlets like Bloomberg and Glossy. Based on an article written by Inc Magazine, BoxyCharm was named one of the fastest-growing companies in 2018.
What You Get:
Treat yourself; you deserve it. Offered as a monthly surprise, members can get up to $270 worth of cosmetic products by opting for Boxycharm. From Two Faced to NARS, this subscription box is up to the brim of popular makeup and skincare brands. By signing up, customers are entitled to receive 5 full-size items.
This company offers some freedom when it comes to customization- as buyers can choose what products they’d like delivered. However, in order to keep the element of surprise, the brand will pre-select some items based on your beauty quiz results.
After receiving their first Boxycharm package, members can choose one brand they’d like to see in their next delivery as an added bonus.
If you’re looking for an upgrade on quantity, we suggest looking into the Luxe and Premium boxes. These two membership plans offer more bonuses and perks, such as products that are worth a higher value.
Delivery & Cost:
Boxycharm offers 4 different pricing options for their subscription pack. For unlimited delivery, customers can opt to pay $25 per month.
If you want to end your membership box at a certain time, buyers can choose from their 3-month plan, 6-month plan, or yearly plan. To keep things easy to read, we’ll provide the specifics in point-form down below:
- 3 months: $23.33/ per installment or prepay $70. Customers save $5 compared to monthly
- 6 months: $23/per installment or prepay $138. Customers save $12 compared to monthly
- 12 months: $22.92/per installment or prepay $275. Customers can get 12 boxes for the cost of 11
If you sign up today, Boxycharm will give you a free item with a $10 credit towards June add-ons. When it comes to shipping, customers will be charged a $5 delivery fee for their regular subscription plan.
However, the brand will take care of any affiliated costs if you live within the 48 contiguous states. Sadly, this membership program is only available to those residing in Canada and America.
Due to the nature of their product, customers cannot request any returns, exchanges, or refunds for their membership box. It’s worth mentioning that buyers can cancel their programs at any time- but they don’t have the option of skipping a month.
If you have any concerns and grievances towards your subscription plan, Boxycharm provides 24/7 support for customers to use.
Related: Read the full Boxycharm Review.
#3: Birchbox Subscription
About the brand:
Let’s be real. The cosmetic aisle at your local store is a confusing mess of products. For those who consider themselves anything but ‘beauty connoisseurs,’ BirchBox is here to make the shopping process less overwhelming.
Founded by business school graduates Katia Beauchamp and Harley Barna, this online subscription service gathers the goods when it comes to makeup and skincare.
By focusing on the ‘casual side of beauty,’ Birchbox only provides the essentials in terms of grooming and self-care. Intended for busy bees and go-getters, their subscription plan comes with no unnecessary frills.
They also make it a point to empower women through their products while implementing smart, sustainable practices along the way. Today, their main headquarters are located in New York City.
What You Get:
If you’re familiar with Costco samples, the BirchBox subscription plan operates in the same way. In order to sign up, members must complete their beauty profile- which includes a small questionnaire to help get a feel of their tastes.
Once finalized, the brand will curate the box based on your results. Every month, buyers will receive 4 to 6 samples per delivery. This may include goodies like the Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Mask or the Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo.
Offered as a helping hand, BirchBox will provide instructions on how to use each item. The best thing about this subscription plan is that customers can view their auto delivery history by downloading their mobile app.
Available for both Apple and Android devices, this handy feature can showcase personalized recommendations and can allow buyers to shop for full-sized items of their samples.
Delivery & Cost:
Birchbox offers 4 different pricing options for its membership program. If you plan on keeping your subscription box for one month, it will only cost $15 per box. For those looking for regular delivery, this review will outline their provided costs for readers to compare:
- 3-month plan: $15/per month
- 6-month plan: $14/per month
- 12-month plan: $13/per month
Reserved for loyal customers only, Birchbox will reward a free gift for every recurring subscription plan. For instance, a 12-month commitment earns you a Sunday Riley CEO Cream. This also applies to members signed up for a 3-month program.
When it comes to delivery, customers should expect their boxes to arrive by the 10th of each month. Fortunately, Birchbox is open to those residing in the United States, France, Spain, and the U.F.
However, you’ll need to visit their international websites to make this option available. Members will only be asked to pay for shipping if their total exceeds $50– that is if they purchase a full-sized product. With tracking, standard delivery only costs $5 at checkout.
Sadly, Birchbox does not accept any returns or refunds. In case of full-sized items, customers can send back their products within a 90-day timeframe. On the bright side, members can cancel their subscription plans at any time.
Related: Read the full Birchbox Subscription Review.
#4: BeautyFIX Subscription
About the brand:
Prescriptions? Please; the best cosmetic products should be made widely available without a doctor’s note. Dermatologist Craig Kraffert believed in this motto, as he sought to make the skincare industry more accessible and affordable.
Kickstarted in 1999, Dermstore made its official debut in El Segundo, California. This beauty brand focuses on gathering professional-grade toners, creams, and serums for customers to use.
Dermstore is passionate about finding products that are both effective and clean. Throughout the years, this cosmetic company has garnered a sizable following of 204k on Instagram. They are also commonly featured in several online magazines such as New York Magazine, Allure, and Harper’s Bazaar.
What You Get:
Don’t worry; there’s no need to visit your local dermatologist for a recommended list of products.
Dermstore offers its BeautyFIX subscription box for skincare fanatics to buy. Provided as a one-time deal or as monthly delivery, customers can receive up to 5 cosmetic goodies.
This may include the Caudalie Moisturizing Serum or the Herbivore Botanicals Facial Oil. As an added note, the company also carries hair and body care items as well.
For every installment, Dermstore will handpick a few of the hottest finds in skincare each month. With an estimated value of over $100, members are able to save big time without having to dig deep within their savings.
Sadly, buyers aren’t allowed to customize their own boxes. However, you’re more than welcome to add any other items as a separate purchase.
Delivery & Cost:
Customers can either choose to buy the BeautyFIX box as a one-time purchase or sign up to have it delivered on a monthly basis. This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review highly suggests opting for their membership program instead.
Offered with no commitments, buyers can simply cancel their plan whenever they wish. To keep things streamlined, we’ll provide their available pricing options down below:
- One-time purchase: $35
- Monthly membership: $25/per installment. Customers save $120 a year
The great thing about the BeautyFIX box is that customers only need to pay for shipping for their first installment. Afterwards, Dermstore will take care of the delivery cost. If you reside within the United States, consider yourself lucky- as this subscription plan is only available for American customers. For those who’ve decided to opt for a membership, they can expect their packages to arrive within the first week of the month.
Like most Best Skincare Subscription boxes, Dermstore doesn’t accept returns or exchanges on their BeautyFIX boxes. However, for items that were damaged during transit, the brand does offer some leniency under its policy.
#5: GlossyBox Subscrpition
About the brand:
Get ready for a wave of ‘aws.’ Established in 2011, founder Charles Abercon launched GlossyBox as a way to keep people happy. Based in Berlin, Germany, this online subscription service sources the best skincare and makeup brands. Intended for beauty fanatics or curious cats, customers are able to stay on top of the latest cosmetic crazes. So far, they offer labels such as BECCA, Essie, Julep, and La Prairie.
Since its online debut, GlossyBox now services millions of customers worldwide. With a team of over 150 employees, this beauty brand is certainly a contender within the subscription box industry. They have also been featured in several media outlets, including Hello Magazine, Entertainment Tonight, and Woman & Home.
What You Get:
GlossyBox aims to break down the cultural barriers of the beauty industry. From Tokyo to Paris, customers are treated to the best cosmetic products that each country has to offer. Each subscription box contains 5 different skincare items that are handpicked by a team of elite pros. To keep members surprised, this membership plan doesn’t come with any customization features. This means that buyers won’t be able to pick and choose which products they’d like to be delivered.
To give readers a taste of what may be included in their monthly plan, this Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review will outline a few of their offered brands. This includes Sunday Riley, Korres, TonyMoly, and Elemis. You’re also free to add other products as a separate purchase. The great thing about being a GlossyBox member is that you get VIP pricing at a discounted rate.
Delivery & Cost:
Is it time to check out? This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review will provide the pricing details for each of their membership plans:
- 1 month: $21/per installment
- 12 months: $18/per installment
- (Pay upfront) 3 months: $59 in total ($19.50 per box). Customers save $4.50
- (Pay upfront) 6 months: $111 in total ($18.50 per box). Customers save $15
- (Pay upfront) 12 months: $210 in total (17.50 per box). Customers save $42
Time to do a happy dance. GlossyBox offers free U.S shipping on all of its subscription plans. It only takes a speedy 2 to 5 days for orders to arrive. For those residing in Canada, a small delivery fee of $5 will be tacked on at checkout.
To help monitor the status of your purchase, customers can sign into their accounts to view their tracking details. You can also cancel your membership box by logging into their webpage. It’s worth noting that members can only end their deliveries at the 14th of every prior month.
With that being said, customers with fixed plans cannot cancel their plans mid-term. When it comes to returns and exchanges, GlossyBox does not offer any refunds under their policy. If you have any questions or grievances related to your monthly delivery, we recommend getting in touch with the brand’s customer service team.
Related: Read the full Glossybox review.
#6: NewBeauty TestTube
About the brand:
We’re all too familiar with the thrill of free samples. This is especially towards beauty magazines, which are usually packed full of fragrance tests or mini packets of facial cream.
However, as we move towards the digital age- editorials are slowly coming off the shelves and onto the internet. Offered as a way to get your sample-fix, NewBeauty provides its own subscription box set for readers to buy.
Operating under Sandow, NewBeauty is considered a front-leader when it comes to fashion and cosmetic news. Best known for their listicles and advice columns, readers can get their daily fill on the latest trends.
For each brand featured, this New York-based company offers customers a chance to try out their products by signing up for their monthly subscription plan.
What You Get:
Love to stay on top of things? Perhaps it’s time to give TestTube a shot. Offered in two different subscription plans, customers are treated to 7 cosmetic goodies that are delivered on a bi-monthly basis. Curated by New Beauty editors, this box contains the hottest picks of the season.
This can range from skincare products to hygiene items like toothpaste. For instance, members will receive the Daily Concepts Daily Exfoliating Dual Texture Scrubber and the Floss Lip Advocate for the May installment.
Each TestTube box contains full and travel-sized products. This is a great way to expose yourself to several different brands without the worry of spending way too much money.
As an added bonus, subscribers are treated to a complimentary New Beauty magazine subscription. Other perks include a list of promotions- which are found on the digital booklet that’s included in every delivery.
Delivery & Cost:
Let’s face it. You probably spend over $50 on cosmetic products every season. For those who are especially savvy on self-care, this could extend to every month or week.
Fortunately, members save hundreds of dollars when signing up for the TestTube membership plan. To keep things easy on the eyes, this Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review will provide their available pricing options down below:
- Bi-monthly subscription: $30/per installment (estimated product value is $232). 7 items included
- Yearly subscription: $141/per installment (originally priced at $180) 7 items included
- (Gift) 6-month plan: $72 in total (originally priced at $90) 3 items included
- (Gift) 1-year plan: $141 in total (originally priced at $180) 7 items included
Unfortunately, free shipping isn’t included with each TestTube subscription plan. Customers are expected to pay $9 per order for bi-monthly memberships. Those who’ve signed up for a yearly commitment must pay $45 upfront.
It usually takes 2 to 3 weeks for packages to arrive- as boxes are typically delivered within the first week of each month. Instead of waiting by your local post office, buyers can keep note of their purchase by using the tracking number provided by the company.
NewBeauty doesn’t accept returns, exchanges, or refunds for the TestTube subscription box. Fortunately, customers have the option of ending their membership plans at any given time. To cancel any future deliveries from shipping, buyers must contact the brand for further instructions.
#7: FaceTory Lux Plus
About the brand:
What do you get when you add Californian and Korean skincare together? Facetory, of course! Inspired by the legendary 10-step routine, founders Sang Lee and Chan Park joined forces to create their own cosmetic brand. Established in 2016, this independent label works to uncover the latest beauty trends- ranging from face masks to serums.
Throughout the years, FaceTory had managed to grow from a niche beauty brand to a worldwide trademark. Their products are now sold in several stores, such as Target and Whole Foods. With a following of over 70.6k on Instagram, this well-known cosmetic label is commonly mentioned in the likes of the media, including Forbes and Marie Claire.
What You Get:
Girl, take this as a sign to detox and unwind. Intended for boss babes and hardworking mamas, the FaceTory Lux Plus subscription box can act as your tri-monthly surprise. Made to turn that frown upside down, this specialty collection is designed to get rid of any signs of stress- and yes that includes that dreaded hormonal pimple. Each pack contains 5 to 6 pre-selected skincare products- with the addition of facemasks thrown in.
Customers are treated to a curated selection of in-house items and other partnered brands. This includes featured labels like Ariul, Elishacoy, Coscodi, and Farm Skin. You also have the choice of opting for their more affordable plan: the FaceTory 7 subscription. We suggest heading over to their website for in-depth specifics on this membership.
Delivery & Cost:
There are two ways to purchase the FaceTory Lux Plus subscription plan. It’s worth noting that all memberships are delivered on a tri-monthly basis. We’ll provide their pricing options in a point-form list to help readers compare:
- Seasonal membership: $50 every three months
- Annual membership: $200 (prepay every 4 months with the addition of a free product) Estimated retail value of $640
Once you’ve signed up for a Lux Plus subscription plan, there’s no need to worry about paying for shipping. FaceTory happens to be one of a few cosmetic brands that offer worldwide delivery for their boxes- as they serve those in Australia, the United States, Canada, China, and other select countries. Every order comes with a nifty tracking number that customers can use to keep tabs on their purchases.
Sadly, FaceTory does not accept returns, exchanges, or refunds for the Lux Plus Subscription plan. However, you can request your money back if a tracking number hasn’t been made available yet. For those who wish to cancel their membership, they can do so by logging into their account.
#8: LookFantastic Subscription
About the brand:
Founder Daniel Crown learned the importance of self-grooming at an early age. His father happened to be an accomplished hair and beauty salonist, so you can say it came naturally within the family.
With a passion for cosmetics and skincare, Crown decided to launch Look Fantastic in 1996. Based in Manchester, England, this online beauty brand curates the freshest picks when it comes to eyeliner, body washes, exfoliators, and more.
Today, they feature over 450 brands on their website. With a following of over 527k on Instagram, Look Fantastic has also been spotlighted by various media outlets, including The Sun, Hello Magazine, and The Independent.
What You Get:
Think of it as an early Christmas present- even if you’re within the months of May or June. Offered in 4 different plans, the Look Fantastic Subscription box contains over 6 different beauty products from alternating brands.
This includes labels such as Giovanni, Fudge Hair, James Read, and more. While it doesn’t offer customization, members are given the element of surprise- as each item is carefully picked by a team of industry professionals.
Each bundle is estimated to be worth over $60, which can help save you a bit of money on your monthly cosmetic expenses. For more details on the LookFantastic membership plan, this Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review recommends heading over to their website for additional specifics.
Delivery & Cost:
If you’re within the ‘shut up and take my money’ portion of this review, we’ll outline the brand’s offered prices for each of their subscription plans. To give readers some clarity, all boxes are auto-delivered at every month:
- 1 month: $20/per installment
- 3 months: $19.54/per installment
- 6 months: $18/per installment
- 12 months: $17.50/per installment
As an added bonus, customers are treated to free delivery for each subscription plan. LookFantastic does offer international shipping, including Canada, the United States, and France. For updates on arrival, buyers will be given a tracking number via a confirmation email that they can use.
After combing through their website, Look Fantastic seems to be a rare find when it comes to returns and refunds. Members are able to send back their subscription boxes if they are unsatisfied.
When it comes to cancellation, subscribers should end their plans within 14 days before the next scheduled delivery. It’s worth noting that you can only opt-out of their membership program once the term has ended.
Related: Read the full LookFantastic Review.
#9: Beauty Heroes
About the brand:
Former spa director Jeannie Jarnot had a bone to pick with the beauty industry. In her early years, she came to a startling realization that toxic ingredients may have played a role in her infertility.
From there on out, she sought to revolutionize the way we think about cosmetic goods. In 2013, Beauty Heroes made its official debut in California.
With a mission to curate the best cosmetic brands, this skincare company ensures that its collection is clean, effective, and sustainable.
They are also passionate about conserving the environment, as Beauty Heroes has teamed up with Project Blue Beauty as a better way to connect eco-friendly labels to ethical consumers.
What You Get:
The Beauty Heroes subscription box is offered in 4 different membership plans. Delivered on a monthly basis, customers will receive one full-sized product for every shipment.
As an added bonus, the brand will also toss in a few deluxe ‘sidekicks’ for you to try out. Within each period, the company will feature one ‘hero’ brand. For instance, this month is dedicated to showcasing what BLÜH ALCHEMY has to offer.
To give readers a sample of what brands are featured in the Beauty Heroes’ database, this Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review found out that they carry labels like Doctor Rodgers, Indie Lee, Golde, Kari Gran, and more.
If you’re adamant about buying clean cosmetics only- don’t worry. This company selects ethical and natural products that are completely safe to use.
Delivery & Cost:
Just need a quick rundown of their pricing options? This Best Skincare Subscriptions Boxes review has you covered:
- Monthly: $59/per installment (billed monthly)
- 3-plan: $46/per installment ($138 as a one-time payment)
- 6-month plan: $42/per installment ($252 as a one-time payment)
- Yearly plan: $40/per installment ($479 as a one-time payment)
Members can expect their Beauty Heroes subscription boxes to be delivered on the first week of each month. For those who live in the United States, you’re not required to pay for any affiliated shipping fees.
With that being said, international customers (such as those residing in Canada) are expected to pay $12 or $19, depending on where they live.
Requests for refunds, returns, or exchanges will be ignored for the Beauty Heroes subscription boxes. Sadly, customers are unable to pause or skip their memberships at will.
However, you do have the freedom to cancel your regular deliveries at any given time. According to their website, members should end their plan before the 26th of every month.
#10: Allure Beauty Box
About the brand:
If you’re savvy on beauty news, you may have heard of Allure Magazine before. Established in 1991, this American-based publication was founded by Linda Wells. Now led by Michelle Lee, this well-known online journal covers the hottest trends within the cosmetic industry.
From listicles to helpful self-care tips, readers can get the latest dig on upcoming brands and startups. Today, their articles are read by thousands of beauty geeks online. Their headquarters are now based in New York City.
What You Get:
For those who consider themselves ingrained within beauty journalism, we recommend checking out Allure’s subscription box. Handpicked by a team of magazine editors, customers can receive a first-hand experience of some of their recommended favs.
Delivered on a monthly basis, members will get 6 or more products within each bundle. Don’t worry- you aren’t paying for itty bitty samples. The company ensures that every collection contains 3 full-sized items.
Members are treated to a variety of skincare and makeup products. This may include the Natasha Denona Eye Shadow or the ESPA Clarifying Clay Mineral Mask. By signing up, customers can also receive a new subscriber gift and access to VIP discounts and events.
Delivery & Cost:
The Allure subscription box is offered in 3 different plans. To keep things streamlined, we’ll provide them in point-form to help readers compare:
- Monthly: $23/per installment (plus a free member gift)
- 3 months: $65 as a prepaid option (plus a free member gift)
- Yearly plan: $250 as a prepaid option (plus a free mega bundle)
This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review found out that they ship their collection every third week of the month. You don’t need to worry about paying any affiliated delivery costs, as it’s included in their membership plans. Sadly, Allure does not service those living outside of the United States.
In terms of their return policy, customers cannot request for a refund for their subscription boxes.
However, buyers can request replacements for damaged items. As a side note, you can cancel your membership plan at any given time.
Related: Read the full Allure Review.
#11: Grove Collaborative
About the brand:
Common people, we aren’t living in the dark ages. The use of toxic ingredients- such as parabens, sulfates, and SLS- should be a thing of the past.
Fortunately, co-founders Stuart Landesberg and Nicole Farb are looking towards the future. Established in 2012, Grove Collaborative was launched to give customers an option to buy clean, sustainable, and eco-friendly goods.
Based in San Francisco, this online company offers products ranging from household cleaning supplies to cosmetic items. Branded as a certified B corp label, Grove Collaborative has garnered critical acclaim for its eco-conscious mission.
This includes a sizable following of over 500k on Instagram and being featured in numerous media outlets, including Business Wire and the Daily Beast.
What You Get:
The Grove Collaborative subscription box works a bit differently compared to the membership plans we’ve covered so far.
Delivered either on a monthly or bi-monthly basis, customers are given complete freedom in customizing their own collection.
However, there is a $29 limit in order to qualify for free shipping. If you manage to stay on their VIP program for more than a year, the company will award you with 4 free gifts.
In terms of products, customers can choose from household cleaning supplies to cosmetic formulas. This includes the Peach Deodorant or their signature detergent packs.
Don’t worry; everything is labeled on the off chance you mistake a disinfectant for a toner.
Within each Grove Collaborative subscription plan, members are treated to VIP access to an exclusive Facebook group and are given a special list of insider promotions and perks.
Delivery & Cost:
In order to sign up for a Grove Collaborative subscription plan, customers must pay a yearly fee of only $20. It’s worth noting that you still need to pay for the box itself.
Depending on delivery, members are given flexibility on how often they’d like their shipments. This can vary from every month or every second month.
Grove Collaborative only services those residing in the United States (sorry, fellow Canadians or Europeans). In terms of free shipping, members must reach a total of at least $29.
Anything below this amount is charged a flat fee of $5. As a side note, their subscription plan comes with no commitments- meaning that you can skip, cancel, or even edit your orders at any time.
To help monitor your monthly deliveries, buyers will receive a tracking number via a confirmation email.
Unfortunately, their subscription box is considered final sale and cannot be refunded. With that being said, Grove Collaborative can give your money back on a case-by-case basis.
When it comes to products that are purchased outside of their membership plan, their return policy is in full swing.
#12: Tribe Beauty Box
About the brand:
Bili Boboe had an eye for beauty products. You could call her a cosmetic connoisseur, as most of her friends ran by her recommendations in finding the hottest makeup and skincare goods.
What started off as a small side hustle became a full-fledged job- since Boboe decided to kickstart her own independent shop online in 2017.
With a realization that most women had little knowledge of how big the cosmetic industry is, Boboe launched the Tribe Beauty Box to make the world of self-care more exposed.
Led by a team of boss babes, this Canadian boutique sources niche upstarts to big well-known brands to find the best products. They also ensure that they feature companies that are primarily led by women.
What You Get:
Not caught up in this season’s batch of beauty trends? There’s no need to sweat (seriously, we don’t want your mascara to run). Offered on a bi-monthly basis, the Tribe Beauty Box curates the hottest cosmetic products on the market, so you don’t have to.
Within each pack, members are treated to 5 full-size items from various brands. For example, subscribers may open the carton to find the GLAMITE Miracle Palette or the Cosrx Acne Pimple Patch.
As of lately, members can either choose from the summer or spring starter box. Each pack differs in terms of brands, but it still contains the same amount of products.
With an estimated retail value of over $120, customers are able to save a bit of coin while treating themselves to a regular bundle of goods.
Delivery & Cost:
Good subscription plans offer some flexibility in terms of pay. Luckily, customers can choose from 3 different memberships for the Tribe Beauty Box.
All programs will still deliver your bundle on a bi-monthly basis- but each differs on how long each term is. This review will outline the company’s provided options to help readers compare:
- Bi-monthly: $35/per installment
- 3 boxes prepaid: $32/per bundle ($111 in total)
- 6 boxes prepaid: $30/per bundle ($210 in total)
- Lashes monthly: $12/per installment
- Lashes 6 months prepaid: $11.49/per bundle ($69 in total)
- Lashes 12 months prepaid: $11/per bundle ($132 in total)
With each installment, customers will need to pay an extra shipping fee (plus tracking) of $5. This is with the exception of the Lashes monthly plan, in which delivery is free.
Fortunately, the Tribe Beauty Box is available worldwide- meaning that it’s available to order in Canada, Australia, and other select countries. In terms of subscription flexibility, members have full range to skip, pause, or cancel their plans whenever they wish.
Like most cosmetic memberships, customers are unable to return, refund, or exchange their Tribe Beauty Box. This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review highly suggests getting in touch with that brand if you have any questions or concerns.
#13: The Detox Box
About the brand:
Romain Gaillard needed to change her ways. After her friend was diagnosed with cancer, she became fully aware of toxins, carcinogens, and other harmful chemicals residing in popular cosmetic products.
With a desire to make other people aware, she launched The Detox Market in 2010. Headquartered in Los Angeles, this online beauty shop collects clean and natural self-care items for customers to choose from.
What You Get:
Consider The Detox Box the skincare equivalent of a healthy green smoothie. Delivered on a monthly basis, members are introduced to a new clean beauty brand for every installment.
The brand doesn’t specify how many products you receive, as this can range from one, two, or more.
In terms of labels, customers may be pleased to find companies like SoapWalla, Vapour, or Osea within their regular bundle. Items can range from skincare, makeup to health supplements.
And the best part about all of this? All Detox Boxes have an estimated retail value of $110.
Delivery & Cost:
It’s time to rip off the bandaid. This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review isn’t going to kid around here- the Detox Market bundle is quite pricey compared to other memberships we covered so far. We’ll provide their available plans in point-form down below:
- Monthly: $80/per installment
- 3 months prepaid: $65/per bundle ($195 in total)
- 6 months prepaid: $58/per bundle ($348 in total)
Thankfully, customers are treated to free shipping for all of their available plans. Within each membership, buyers are able to change their delivery preferences or cancel their programs whenever they choose.
All Detox boxes are delivered in the first week of each month, with tracking information made available, of course. Unfortunately, only members residing in America or Canada can buy their monthly collections.
The Detox Market does not accept any returns, exchanges, or refunds for their subscription box. If you have any concerns with the products in your monthly bundle, we suggest getting in touch with the brand for additional information.
#14: Petit Vour
About the brand:
What can I say? Petit Vour has that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ element that makes it stand out from the competition. Founded by Madeline Alcott and Ryan Miner, this online cosmetic boutique sources the ‘crème de la crème’ of makeup and skincare items.
With a focus on collecting vegan, cruelty-free, and clean beauty products, customers don’t need to look far to find the latest self-care goods every season.
Petit Vour maintains a sleek and sophisticated image-bearing from those cold, industrialized cosmetic companies that are commonplace today.
With a following of over 64.2k on Instagram, this Texas-based boutique seems to be an internet favorite- as it’s featured in several media outlets, including Forbes and Bustle.
What You Get:
Designed for mademoiselles and messieurs alike, the Petit Vour Beauty Box embodies that sense of Parisian elegance throughout each beauty product.
Customers can choose from two subscription plans: the regular bundle or the PV Plus collection. It’s worth noting that each item isn’t randomly selected. Each collection is specifically curated to your tastes- which are recommended in the online quiz.
The standard Beauty Box contains 4 to 5 cosmetic items that come from different brands, such as Eye of Horus and Le Prunier. It has an estimated retail value of over $50, which is a great deal considering how much you pay for each installment.
You also get 400 points added to your plan, which can be used to gain access to exclusive deals and perks.
The PV Plus Beauty Box features 5 to 7 beauty products, which range from travel-size to full-size. Its total value is estimated to cost $100 or more, but customers only need to pay a quarter of its regular price. In terms of items, goods can range from makeup, skincare to fragrances.
Delivery & Cost:
Petit Vour offers several different pricing plans for each of its bundles. This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review will highlight each membership to help you make that decision:
- The Beauty Box: $18/per month (or $15/per month for a total of $180)
- The PV Plus Beauty Box: $25/per month
Each membership comes with free U.S shipping, with the inclusion of tracking, of course.
Fortunately, they do provide international delivery. However, customers outside of America will need to pay for any affiliated transportation costs.
You can expect your box within the 10th or 20th day of each month. Members can view their subscription plan details by logging into the account. It’s worth noting that buyers can also cancel their terms at any time.
Due to the nature of their product, Petit Vour does not allow any returns, exchanges, or refunds for their Beauty Boxes. We encourage you to contact their customer service team for any concerns and inquiries.
#15: Cocotique
About the brand:
Dana Hill Robinson had a passion for uplifting women. Throughout her multiple careers, she made it a mission to empower females by exposing them to the world of beauty products.
With several accomplishments and winning titles under her belt, Robinson decided that it was time that she led her own online cosmetic shop.
Founded in 2013, Cocotique made its official debut in New York City. Led by women for women, this cosmetic boutique sources hundreds of self-care goods ranging from makeup, skincare to nail polish.
Garnering an impressive following of over 41.8k on Instagram, Cocotique has also been frequently mentioned in the likes of several media outlets, including BuzzFeed and Refinery29.
What You Get:
Take this as a sign to #loveyourself. Cocotique offers 4 different subscription plans for their monthly beauty boxes. Each bundle contains 5 to 8 cosmetic goodies that vary from mini-size to full-size.
From the Jellicious Lip Gloss to the No Shade Sunscreen Oil, customers are in for a surprise during each installment. This is in no way a spoiler of any means, but you can expect items pertaining to skincare, makeup, health, fitness, and more.
From what we’ve gathered so far, customers are unable to customize their own bundle. All Cocotique boxes come with instructional cards on how to use each product correctly.
Members are also given a list of exclusive discount codes that they can use to purchase full-size items on their website.
Delivery & Cost:
As we mentioned before, Cocotique provides four different subscription plans for customers to choose from. To keep readers in the know, we’ll list down the specifics of each membership in the following list:
- Monthly: $25/per installment
- 3 months prepaid: $70 in total (customers save $5)
- 6 months prepaid: $138 in total (customers save $12)
- 12 months prepaid: $270 in total (customers save $30)
All of these membership plans come with free shipping- with the exception of their older subscription boxes. Packages are usually delivered within the 15th or 20th day of each month- but don’t worry, customers can keep in the know by using the tracking number provided by the brand.
Unfortunately, Cocotique only services those living in the United States- but they are looking to expand their operations in the future.
Readers should know that their 3, 6, and 12-month plans cannot be canceled. Their basic membership can be called off, that is- with the exception of the first installment.
In terms of their return policy, Cocotique does not accept refunds or exchanges for all of their subscription boxes.
#16: IMAGE Skincare
About the brand:
IMAGE is a cosmetic brand dedicated to providing the essentials when it comes to skincare. Founded by Janna Ronert, this company is led by a team of dermatologists and researchers.
By offering clinical grade toners and serums, their products are meant for professional use only- meaning that regular customers can’t purchase their items without a credible license.
Since its debut in 2003, Image Skincare has garnered a formidable reputation for its tried-and-true formulas. This includes being featured in online magazines such as Daily Mail and Harper’s Bazaar. Today, their headquarters are located in Palm Beach, Florida.
What You Get:
Image Skincare doesn’t offer any monthly box subscriptions. Instead, they offer a subscription plan for customers to select upon checkout. As we mentioned before, their products are only available to those who have a valid license in dermatology or cosmetology. If you happen to be a certified professional, Image provides discounted prices for a majority of their formulas. Within each membership, subscribers also have access to order tracking and history.
Delivery & Cost:
There is no entry fee when signing up for an Image Skincare subscription plan. Additionally, there’s no need to worry about delivery fees either, as the brand offers free shipping for VIP members.
When creating an account, customers have full range to modify their shipment dates, edit the item quantity, or cancel their term.
Image Skincare does offer returns, refunds, and exchanges for their products. According to the company, customers have until 30 days to send back their items. This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review highly recommends checking their website for additional specifics on their policy.
#17: Curology
About the brand:
Meet Rachel: a 22-year old woman diagnosed with a troublesome case of acne. As most of us usually went through that dreaded ‘hormonal pimple’ phase, we can gather some sympathy for her case.
After weeks spent with her local dermatologist, Rachel was reduced to tears- as her skin finally cleared up. During a pivotal talk with her doctor, she shared that she never thought to visit a professional. Her reason? “It was just for rich people.”
Moved by what she said, Dr. David Lortscher decided that it was time that the world of effective skincare was made readily available to the public- without the need of a doctor’s prescription.
Run by professionals and industry leaders, Curology was born in 2014. Based in San Francisco, this online shop offers customized treatments on a case-by-case basis.
What You Get:
For those unequipped in the world of skincare, it may be difficult to find effective formulas in a world of hundreds of cosmetic products. How do you know that this product will actually work, as compared to dozens of treatments you’ve tried before?
Luckily, the folks back at Curology hand mix their own batch of antidotes based on your needs and concerns.
By taking their online quiz, members can get a box of custom skincare goods on a monthly basis. From breakouts to red spots, Curology has it all when it comes to personalized formulas.
Currently, they offer two sets of bundles: a pack that includes just one product or a 3-in-1 collection that contains a cleanser, moisturizer, and your very own exclusive serum.
Delivery & Cost:
Just need a quick rundown of offered plans? This Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review has got you covered. We’ll provide a shortlist of specifics of each their available memberships down below:
- The Custom Formula: $20/per month plus $5 for shipping
- The Set: $30/per month with free shipping
Fortunately, Curology is offering a free 30-day trial for their Custom Formula Plan. We highly suggest using their sign-up form to see if their subscription boxes are available within your state- as the brand only services those residing in America.
All membership plans offer some flexibility in terms of shipments since customers can pause, skip, or cancel their terms at any time.
Finally, Curology does provide a 90-money back guarantee for their treatment plans. After this period is over, customers are unable to return, refund, or exchange their boxes.
Related: Read the full Curology Review.
How to Choose the Best Skincare Subscription Box
After combing through 17 different cosmetic brands, this Best Skincare Subscription Boxes review picked up a few things along the way.
When deciding on a membership plan, customers should pay attention to a few key points: customization, variety, and price. Let’s be real here- most subscription programs usually offer the same type of products.
From what we’ve covered so far, a majority of the 17 companies issued promises of cleanliness, sustainability, and effectiveness.
Readers should pick a brand that offers some level of personalization. While it’s fun to have the element of surprise, I’d say that knowing the value of the product itself is more important.
For example, Beauty Heroes doesn’t explicitly say how many items are included in their monthly box. This can be quite frustrating for customers- as they’re in a ‘blindspot’ when it comes to comparing the worth of goods to the amount charged.
Other elements like shipping and extras are also important. Aside from free delivery, some cosmetic brands only offer their services within the United States- so it’s crucial to look up their availability spots before getting excited.
Returns are usually the ‘golden’ area, as very few companies offer refunds or exchanges for their boxes. With this in mind, you should definitely take a quick glance at their company policy when it comes to money-back guarantees.
Overall, if you’re keen on finding the best value for a cosmetic bundle, we’re certain that you’ll find at least one from the 17 Top Skincare Subscription Boxes we’ve covered so far.
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